US Federal House Bill HJR27

US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 2/3/23
• Report Pass: 2/28/23
• Engrossed: 3/14/23
• Enrolled: 4/5/23
• Vetoed: 4/6/23

Caption

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers, Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Revised Definition of 'Waters of the United States'".

Impact

If enacted, the resolution would eliminate the revised definition put forth by the EPA, thereby reinstating the previous regulatory framework governing water bodies. This move is expected to have significant implications for environmental protections, particularly concerning how various bodies of water are regulated, which could affect industries reliant on water resources such as agriculture, construction, and resource extraction. Opponents of the rule have argued that the revised definition provided clarity and consistency in regulation, essential for protecting water resources and public health.

Summary

HJR27 is a joint resolution aimed at disapproving a rule established by the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers, Department of Defense, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This rule pertains to the 'Revised Definition of 'Waters of the United States'.' The resolution signifies Congress's formal objection to the rule, which was published in the Federal Register on January 18, 2023. It is primarily rooted in concerns regarding the scope of federal jurisdiction over water bodies under the Clean Water Act and attempts to redefine what constitutes 'waters of the United States.'

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR27 is polarized, reflecting broader ideological divisions regarding environmental regulation. Proponents of the resolution, including many Republican legislators, argue that the revised rule represents an overreach of federal authority and that states should retain more control over their water resources. Conversely, critics, including environmental advocacy groups and Democratic lawmakers, contend that the resolution undermines critical protections for the environment, potentially endangering water quality and aquatic ecosystems.

Contention

The primary contention related to HJR27 centers on the balance of power between state and federal regulatory authority. Supporters of the joint resolution posit that the federal oversight established by the revised definition would hinder local governance and economic activities. In contrast, opponents emphasize the necessity of such federal protections to ensure that states do not weaken environmental safeguards at the expense of clean water, particularly in areas that are ecologically sensitive. This ongoing debate underscores the tension between regulatory simplicity and comprehensive environmental stewardship.